Recently, we [ 13] published a case control study of absconding among forensic patients within a large urban psychiatric hospital, finding an overall rate of 14.4% over a 24-month period.
Stewart and Bowers [ 12] reviewed 11 published studies of absconding from forensic facilities, finding a median rate of 0.76 absconding events per month per 100 beds (range 0.04-1.06).
Given that so few studies have examined absconding events from forensic settings, further research is needed to replicate the significance and clinical utility of the variables identified in this study that were associated with a heightened likelihood of absconding.
Last week City of Westminster magistrates remanded Assange in custody because they said he posed too high a danger of absconding.
Those who abscond from forensic settings are more likely to be young, male, and diagnosed with a psychotic disorder [ 2, 11, 13], and present with a history of absconding [ 10].
Forensic patients who absconded from hospital were more likely to have a history of absconding attempts, a diagnosed substance use disorder, as well as score higher on a structured professional violence risk assessment measure.
Although these absconsions may appear unplanned, a recent pattern of non-compliance with privileges (e.g., returning late, overuse) combined with a history of absconding suggested otherwise.
"However, where there is a documented risk of absconding, handcuffs may be used, balanced against a number of factors, including their age.
All leaves were initially restricted in March 2012, following concerns regarding a high frequency of absconding.
Also lacking are prospective investigations into the risk factors that are associated with a higher likelihood of absconding, as well as corresponding risk management and intervention strategies that could be employed to reduce rates of absconding from within forensic settings.
